Player's Perspective: Role of a Leader

This is a player's perspective entry by Jill Rackers. I asked her to consider the following questions and write a response from her perspective:
What makes being a leader on a team difficult?
What, in your opinion, are the most important attributes of a leader?

I think that the most important thing a leader can do is lead by example on and off the field. No matter if you are sore, hurt, have a headache, losing the game, sitting on the bench, or what kind of mood they are in, they must stay positive. They also must respect the coach at all times and treat all players equally no matter what grade they are in or their level of ability. They have to be able to interact and get along with all personality types. They must also trust the coach and be able to talk to them about problems on the team, and know that he will take them seriously and try to help them out. For example, we need to take our workouts seriously so we can get better and stronger. A leader must encourage and push others on the team to do their best. They must have confidence in themselves and the other players on the team. Leaders must want to get better and want the team to succeed all the time.

Has any coach ever tried to develop you as a leader, if so how?

One of my summer coaches once made the comment, "If you are not up, the team is not up. Accept your role." This made me realize that other teammates were watching and followed my example. From then on I have always tried to stay enthusiastic and stay positive in order to encourage the rest of the team to do the same.

I am looking forward to next season and can't wait to start working out with the team. I LOVE SOFTBALL!!!!!!
-Jill Rackers